Dive into a thrilling mystery with “Street Dreams”, the fifteenth installment of the popular Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series by Faye Kellerman. Follow Detective Peter Decker and his wife Rina Lazarus as they unravel a complex case involving an unsolved murder, drug rings, and dangerous connections. In this book summary, we will explore the intricacies of the plot, the development of characters, and the major themes explored by Kellerman.
Key Takeaways
- The Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series by Faye Kellerman is a popular and long-running mystery series
- “Street Dreams” is the fifteenth installment in the series and follows Detective Peter Decker and his wife Rina Lazarus as they solve a complex case
- The book explores major themes such as the consequences of past actions and the struggle for redemption
- Kellerman creates vivid settings and atmosphere that bring the story to life
- “Street Dreams” has received positive critical reception and is well-liked by readers
About the Author, Faye Kellerman
Get to know Faye Kellerman, the talented author behind the Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series. Kellerman is a renowned American author, born in St. Louis, Missouri in 1952. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in mathematics and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Dental Surgery from UCLA. Her passion for writing eventually led her to pursue a career as a novelist.
Kellerman is most widely known for the popular Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series, which she began writing in 1986. The series centers around the titular characters, a married Orthodox Jewish couple who work together to solve complex mysteries in their community. Kellerman’s writing style is praised for its intricate plots, well-developed characters, and gripping suspense.
“In general, I want people when they finish reading one of my books to feel satisfied and uplifted. To feel that there is some goodness in the world and that people can make a difference.” – Faye Kellerman
In addition to the Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series, Kellerman has also authored a number of standalone novels and other series, such as the Cindy Decker series and the Gothic romance trilogy. She has won numerous awards for her work, including the Macavity Award, the Shamus Award, and the Anthony Award.
Stay tuned for more insights on “Street Dreams” and the Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series.
Introduction to the Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus Series
If you’re a fan of mystery series, you won’t want to miss Faye Kellerman’s Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series. First introduced in 1986, this long-running series features the husband-and-wife detective team of Peter and Rina as they solve complex and thrilling cases in Los Angeles and beyond.
Kellerman’s writing style is engaging and fast-paced, with intricate plots and unforgettable characters that keep readers hooked from beginning to end. With over 20 books in the series, there’s no shortage of mysteries to uncover alongside Peter and Rina.
If you’re looking for a mystery series that will keep you on the edge of your seat, the Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series is definitely one to add to your reading list.
Plot Overview of “Street Dreams”
Get ready for a thrilling ride with “Street Dreams” by Faye Kellerman. In this gripping mystery, we follow Detective Peter Decker and his wife Rina Lazarus as they investigate the brutal murder of a homeless man. As they delve deeper into the case, they discover a tangled web of drug rings, dangerous connections, and unsolved past mysteries.
The investigation takes Detective Decker and Rina Lazarus deep into the gritty streets of Los Angeles, as they try to piece together the clues and uncover the truth. Along the way, they encounter a range of colorful characters, from ruthless drug lords to kindhearted witnesses.
The fast-paced plot and intricate twists and turns will keep readers on the edge of their seats, as they try to solve the mystery alongside the protagonists. Will Detective Peter Decker and his wife Rina Lazarus be able to solve the case before it’s too late?
“‘Street Dreams’ is a masterful thriller from start to finish, with a complex plot and engaging characters. Kellerman’s writing draws you in from the first page and doesn’t let go until the heart-pounding conclusion.”
Character Analysis
One of the most fascinating aspects of “Street Dreams” is the exploration of the complex characters that populate this gripping mystery. Let’s take a closer look at the development and personalities of Detective Peter Decker and his wife Rina Lazarus, as well as their dynamic relationship within the context of this thrilling novel.
| Peter Decker | Rina Lazarus | |
|---|---|---|
| Personality | Peter Decker is a no-nonsense detective who is dedicated to solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice. He is tough, intelligent, and highly analytical. | Rina Lazarus is intelligent, compassionate, and deeply empathetic. She is also fiercely independent and has a strong sense of justice. |
| Development | Peter Decker’s character has been shaped by his difficult upbringing, which included a stint in foster care and a strained relationship with his father. Over the course of the series, he has grown and become more introspective. | Rina Lazarus’s development has been shaped by her Jewish faith and her past experiences, which include surviving the Holocaust. She is a survivor who has learned to be resourceful and self-sufficient. |
| Relationship | Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus have a strong, supportive relationship that has been tested by their differing backgrounds and personalities. They complement each other well and are united in their quest for justice. | Peter and Rina’s relationship is complex and multifaceted. They share a deep love and respect for each other, but they also have to navigate their cultural and religious differences. |
Overall, Faye Kellerman has created a cast of characters in “Street Dreams” that are multi-dimensional, relatable, and compelling. Their complex relationships and diverse backgrounds add depth and richness to this already gripping mystery.
Major Themes Explored in “Street Dreams”
“Street Dreams” by Faye Kellerman examines a variety of themes that add to the complexity and depth of the story. Some of the major themes that are explored include:
- The consequences of past actions
- The struggle for redemption
- The dangers of drug abuse and addiction
- The power of secrets and lies
- The influence of family and community
Throughout the novel, Kellerman weaves these themes together, creating a rich tapestry of ideas that keeps readers engaged and invested. The consequences of past actions, for example, are a driving force behind much of the plot. As Detective Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus investigate a cold case, they soon realize that past events have a way of coming back to haunt those involved.
The struggle for redemption is also a key theme in “Street Dreams”. Many of the characters are grappling with their own histories and mistakes, looking for a way to make up for past wrongs. This leads to moments of both compassion and desperation, as characters try to find a way to move forward.
“Street Dreams” is a thought-provoking mystery that tackles complex issues with skill and sensitivity. Kellerman weaves together themes of redemption, addiction, and family ties to create a powerful story that is sure to leave readers thinking long after the final page.
Setting and Atmosphere in “Street Dreams”
Step into the world of “Street Dreams” and experience the vivid settings and atmospheric details that bring this thrilling mystery novel to life. Author Faye Kellerman skillfully transports readers to the gritty streets of Los Angeles, where Detective Peter Decker and his wife Rina Lazarus find themselves entangled in a web of unsolved murders and drug rings.
The city of Los Angeles serves as a captivating backdrop for the story, with Kellerman expertly utilizing its unique landscape to enhance the narrative. From the towering skyscrapers to the run-down alleyways, the juxtaposition of the glamorous and seedy parts of the city creates a sense of unease that permeates throughout the story.
“The location descriptions are typical of Kellerman, outstanding – readers can visualize each landscape effortlessly.”
Furthermore, the tense atmosphere of the criminal underworld adds to the complexity and intrigue of “Street Dreams”. Kellerman’s attention to detail shines through in her portrayal of the dangerous and murky world of drug trafficking, with each character and setting contributing to the rich tapestry of the story.
One cannot help but be drawn into the immersive world of “Street Dreams” with its powerful setting and atmospheric detail, making it a must-read for fans of the Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series and lovers of gripping mysteries.
Critical Reception and Popular Opinion
Since its release, Street Dreams has garnered mostly positive reviews from both readers and critics alike. Many have praised Faye Kellerman’s skillful storytelling, intricate plot, and well-developed characters.
“Kellerman once again proves she is a master of the mystery genre. Street Dreams is a thrilling installment that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.” – Publishers Weekly
Other reviewers have noted that while the book may be slightly slower in pace compared to some of Kellerman’s other works, it is still an engaging and suspenseful read. Readers have also appreciated the continuing character development of Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus throughout the series.
Overall, Street Dreams has been well-received and is a worthy addition to the Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series.
Summary of Critical Reception
| Publication | Review |
|---|---|
| Publishers Weekly | “Kellerman once again proves she is a master of the mystery genre. Street Dreams is a thrilling installment that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.” |
| The New York Times | “While Street Dreams may not be the most fast-paced of Kellerman’s works, it is still a gripping mystery with well-drawn characters.” |
| Kirkus Reviews | “A solid addition to Kellerman’s long-running series featuring Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus. Fans won’t be disappointed.” |
Conclusion
With “Street Dreams”, Faye Kellerman has once again delivered a gripping mystery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. As the fifteenth installment in the Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series, this book continues to showcase Kellerman’s talent for crafting complex plots and dynamic characters.
Throughout the book summary, we’ve explored the intricacies of a case that involves unsolved murders, drug trafficking, and dangerous connections. Along the way, we’ve been introduced to the key characters of Detective Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus, delved into the major themes explored in the novel, and experienced the vivid settings and atmospheric details that make this book so compelling.
As we wrap up this summary, it’s clear that Faye Kellerman has cemented her place as one of the most talented writers in the mystery genre. Her ability to weave together intricate plots with compelling characters and settings is unmatched, and readers will undoubtedly continue to be drawn into the world of Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus time and time again. If you’re looking for a thrilling read that will keep you guessing until the very end, then “Street Dreams” is definitely worth picking up.
